Hugging the banks of the Adige River in northern Italy, it’s not hard to fall in love with Verona with all her impressive artwork, ancient architecture, rich history, and stunning skyline.
Italy’s fair Verona extends beyond her fame for being the city of Shakespeare’s star-crossed lovers. Verona was nicknamed piccola Roma (little Rome) thanks to its importance during the Roman times, Verona was established as a Roman settlement in 89 BC. With its long history and so much on offer, I’ve gathered 26 best things to do in Verona.
My top money-saving travel tip when visiting Verona is to pick up a VeronaCard. With the VeronaCard you get either free or reduced fee entrance to top attractions, monuments and churches plus discounted tickets to selected concerts, opera and theatre productions and free bus travel. For a full list of what’s included and to buy your Verona Card, click here.
Haven’t decided where to stay? Don’t miss my guide on where to stay in Verona.
Map of 26 Best Things to do in Verona
To help you locate each of the magnificent viewpoints in Verona that I’ve included in this list, I’ve created a handy Google map you can use. Got a question? Just ask me in the comments below.
Watch my Verona video guide here
1. Piazza Bra
The best way to kick off your time in Verona is by visiting Piazza Bra. Located in the heart of Verona, Piazza Bra is one of the most beautiful squares in the world and home to monuments from various eras. Highlights include the ancient Roman Arena, the seventeenth-century Palazzo della Gran Guardia, the impressive Palazzo Barbieri, and the marble Liston, bustling with cafés and restaurants.
Fun fact: A marble liston is a Venetian word used in various cities of the Veneto region. The term liston refers to a long marble slab used for paving the streets. The term far el liston, means “to walk around the square”.
Tips for visiting Piazza Bra
- Piazza Bra is fully pedestrianised so it’s a safe place to wander around without having to dodge traffic.
Address: Piazza Bra, 1, 37121 Verona
Opening hours:
- Cafés and restaurants open early for breakfast around 8am and close around 2am at night.
- Shops open from 9.30am and close at 9pm.
2. Roman Arena (Arena di Verona)
No trip to Verona would be complete without visiting its most iconic monument, the ancient Roman Arena. This Roman Amphitheatre was built in the 1st century A.D. towards the end the empire of Augustus and the start of the empire of Claudius.
The Roman Arena is located in the lively Piazza Bra full or bars, restaurants and a park giving you plenty of vantage points from which to enjoy one of Italy’s largest amphitheatres.
Thanks to its elliptical shape, the Roman Amphitheatre has excellent acoustics, which is why in summer it hosts the biggest names in the music and opera and seats up to 30,000 patrons on its various orders of tiers. The high quality production and performances are unforgettable making it one of the absolute best things to do in Verona.
Verona’s Roman Amphitheatre wasn’t always a happy place though. At the centre of the area floor gladiators would fight for life against wild beasts. Sadly, thousands of souls died inside these pink-tinged marble walls.
Tips for visiting the Roman Arena
Address: Piazza Bra, 1, 37121 Verona
Opening hours:
- Tuesday – Sunday: 8:30 – 19:30 (the ticket office closes at 18:30)
- Monday: 13:30 – 19:30 (the ticket office closes at 18:30)
Admission:
- Free entrance & Priority Entrance with the Verona Card
- Adult: 10,00 €
- Reduced: 7,50 €
- Groups (min 15 pers): 7,50 €
- Schools and 8-14 years old: 1,00 €
- 0-7 years old: Free
Visit the official Arena website to buy opera tickets
3. Palazzo Barbieri
After visiting the Roman Arena, stop by Palazzo Barbieri located opposite. This beautiful Neoclassical building was completed in 1848 and designed by Giuseppe Barbieri from which it now gets its name. Today, it is also known as “Palazzo del Comune” (Municipality Palace) and houses the seat of the Municipal Administration.
Tips for visiting the Palazzo Barbieri
Address: Piazza Bra, 1, 37121 Verona
Opening hours: The Palace is not open to visitors, but it can be admired from the outside.
Admission: Free to wander around the exterior.
4. Palazzo della Gran Guardia
Continuing clockwise around Piazza Bra from Palazzo Barbieri and located on the south side is the majestic Gran Guardia Palace (Palazzo della Gran Guardia). Built over two floors and an attic, the palace stretches over eighty-six meters in length. The ground floor features thirteen large arches each exceeding 3.5 metres in diameter, almost challenging those of Arena opposite.
The palace was designed by Domenico Curtoni at the start of the 17th century, but it wasn’t completed until Giuseppe Barbieri came along in the mid-19th century.
The Palazzo della Gran Guardia is one of Verona’s most important historic buildings. It was intended to be used as a covered space for soldiers to train in during bad weather and was also used as barracks for the occupying Austrian Army forces during Italy’s first struggle for independence in 1848.
Today, Palazzo della Gran Guardia is a venue for exhibitions and cultural events including art shows and Vinitaly, Verona’s wine conference.
Tips for visiting Palazzo della Gran Guardia
- Its interior is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
Address: Piazza Bra, 1, 37121 Verona
Opening hours: Palazzo della Gran Guardia is only open to the public during exhibitions or other events.
Admission: Prices vary with each event.
5. Portoni della Bra
Adjoining Palazzo della Gran Guardia is Portoni della Bra, an old city gate built along the medieval walls in order to connect Piazza Brà to what at the time was the suburban countryside.
Tips for visiting Portoni della Bra
Address: Piazza Bra, 1, 37121 Verona
Opening hours: All day, every day
Admission: Free
6. Porta Borsari
This beautiful Roman gate is Porta Borsari which dates back to the 1st century AD. Built using locally sourced limestone, it features two arches flanked by decorative Corinthian columns.
Porta Borsari was located on Via Postumia which served as the Decumano Massimo (the main east-west street) a major Roman road. It was the city’s main entrance, which is why is it’s so richly decorated.
The gate’s original Roman name was Porta Iovia, because of its proximity to a small temple dedicated to Jupiter lustralis.
In the Middle Ages it was renamed Porta di San Zeno, while its current name derives from the guard soldiers which were paid the dazio (Latin bursarii).
Tips for visiting Porta Borsari
Address: Corso Porta Borsari, 57A, 37121 Verona
Opening hours: All day, every day
Admission: Free
7. Castelvecchio and Castelvecchio Museum and Gallery
Located on the banks of the River Adige is Castelvecchio, a square-shaped fort which was the most powerful military construction in the area during the Middle Ages. It was built in 1354 by Cangrande II della Scala of the Scaliger clan who ruled Verona in the Middle Ages on what was probably once a Roman fortress site just outside of the city walls.
The Castlevecchio was the greatest engineering achievement for the Scaliger dynasty who built the moated fortress to protect the family in case of revolt.
Later, Castlevecchio suffered major damage by Napoleon and bombings in WWII but was restored and reinvented by architect Carlo Scarpa.
Today, the castle is now home to the Castelvecchio Museum and Gallery which documents the history of the castle through a series of medieval artefacts, factual displays and a diverse collection of paintings by Pisanello, Giovanni Bellini, Tiepolo, and Veronese. Included in your ticket, is access to the two guard towers which give excellent elevated views of the city and river.
Tips for visiting Castelvecchio Museum and Gallery
- The bridge is fully pedestrianised so there’s no traffic to dodge
- The museum is partially accessible to wheelchairs and strollers via an internal elevator.
Address: Corso Castelvecchio, 2, 37121 Verona
Opening hours:
- Tuesday – Sunday: 8:30 – 19:30 (the ticket office closes at 18:45)
- Monday: 13:30 – 19:30 (the ticket office closes at 18:45)
Admission:
- Free entrance with the Verona Card or persons with disabilities
- Adult: 6,00 €
- Reduced: 4,50 €
- Groups (min 15 pers): 7,50 €
- Schools and 8-14 years old: 1,00 €
- First Sunday of the month between October and March: 1,00 €
Visit the official Castelvecchio website for more information
8. Castelvecchio Bridge (Ponte Scaligero)
Extending out from the fort is the Castelvecchio bridge (Ponte Scaligero), which at the time of its construction, was the longest of its kind in the world. It might not be the most beautiful bridge you’ve ever seen, (remember it was designed to be functional) but just like many of the historic buildings in Verona built during this era, the bridge is made from red brick creating a lovely contrast against the beautiful city landscape.
One of the best things to do in Verona is to wander across the bridge itself and enjoy the views of the Adige River by peeping through its series of crenellated battlements. Don’t forget to admire the bridge from the river bank. The best view is from the north side looking back towards both the fort and bridge.
Tips for visiting Castelvecchio Bridge
Address: Corso Castelvecchio,2, 37121 Verona
Opening hours: All day, every day
Admission: Free
9. Arco dei Gavi
The Arco dei Gavi is a white limestone monument that was built in the 1 century A.D. by Lucio Vitruvio Cerdone for the gens Gavia, a noble Roman family who had their hometown in Verona. Originally, it was located at the start of the Via Postumia, the Roman road leading to the city. By the Middle Ages, it was repurposed as a gate in the walls.
In 1805, French troops dismantled Arco dei Gavi in order to enlarge the north-eastern entrance gate to the town. By 1932, the monument was re-assembled next to Castelvecchio where it stands today.
Tips for visiting Arco dei Gavi
- Arco dei Gavi looks especially beautiful at night when all lit up.
Address: Corso Cavour, 37121 Verona
Opening hours: All day, every day
Admission: Free
10. Piazza delle Erbe
Piazza delle Erbe, literally Square of Herbs, is a lively piazza full of shops, cafés, restaurants and city market located in the heart of Verona’s historic centre. During the Roman Empire, this diamond shaped piazza would have been the location of the main forum of the settlement.
Today, Piazza delle Erbe is surrounded by important buildings including the Torre dei Lamberti, the Casa dei Giudici (“Judges’ Hall”) and the ornately frescoed Mazzanti Houses.
On the western side of the piazza is stunning Baroque Palazzo Maffei, decorated by statues of Greek gods including Jupiter, Venus, Apollo, Hercules and Minerva. Located directly in front of Palazzo Maffei is a white marble column with a St. Mark’s Lion adorning the top, a symbol of the Republic of Venice.
On the southern end is the Casa dei Mercanti (“House of the Merchants”, also known as Domus Mercatorum), now the seat of the Banca Popolare di Verona.
The masterpiece of the Piazza delle Erbe is its fountain, built in 1368 by Cansignorio della Scala with a Roman statue called Madonna Verona, dating back to 380 AD.
Tips for visiting Piazza delle Erbe
- The centre of the square is pedestrianised to the east with a quiet road reaching around the west side.
Address:
- Piazza Erbe, 16, 37121 Verona
- Located between Via Mazzini and the Corso Porta Borsari.
Opening hours:
- Cafés and restaurants open between 07:00 – 09:00 to as late as 02:00.
- Shops open between 09:30-10:00 to 19:00-19:00 and may close for lunch between 13:00-15:00.
Admission: Free
11. Torre dei Lamberti
Towering over Piazza delle Erbe is Torre dei Lamberti one of the only remaining towers in Verona and certainly the tallest. Its construction started in 1171 by the Scaligere family at a time when rich merchants and nobles tried to outdo each other. The tower was intended for defensive use but it also housed a jail.
Torre dei Lamberti continues to dominate the skyline standing 83 metres tall and offers gorgeous panoramic views from its bell tower.
Tips for visiting Torre dei Lamberti
- A lift is available to whisk you up two-thirds of the way before walking up the remaining flights of stairs
- The ticket includes a visit to the Modern Art Gallery (closed Mondays).
Address: Via della Costa, 2, 37121 Verona
Opening hours:
- Monday – Friday: 10:00 – 18:00
- Saturday – Sunday: 11:00 – 19:00
- Public holiday – 11:00 – 19:00
- Last admission 45 minutes before closing
Admission:
- Free entrance with the Verona Card or persons with disabilities
- Adult: 8,00 €
- Reduced: 5,00 €
- Children 0-7 years: Free
- Monday: 5.00 € (due to Modern Art Gallery being closed)
- Schools and 8-14 years old (Monday only): 1,00 €
Visit the official Torre dei Lamberti website for more information
12. Piazza dei Signori / Piazza Dante
Passing under the Arco della Costa (Costa Arch) you will lead you to the quieter Piazza dei Signori, also known as Piazza Dante because of the statue at its centre. Dangling from the arch is a whale’s rib, which as legend goes, will fall on the first truly just person to pass beneath it.
The piazza is flanked by important historical and architectural important buildings, such as the Loggia del Consiglio (the former city hall), the Palace of the Government, and the Domus Nova.
Dante Alighieri, born in Florence in 1265, was a poet and writer and just like Shakespeare is to English, Dante is considered the father of the Italian language. In the late Middle Ages, most poetry was written in Latin, which made is only accessible to the most educated readers. Dante defended the everyday vernacular and began writing in his Tuscan dialect, thus making his work widely accessible. His most famous piece is epic poem The Divine Comedy. This highly unorthodox choice set a precedent that was later adopted by other Italian writers including Petrarch and Boccaccio.
A statue of Dante stands here because when he was 39, Dante come to live in Verona for seven years after he was exiled from Florence. He was taken in and hosted by Bartolomeo and Cangrande della Scala of the ruling Scaligere family.
Two other noteworthy statues here are dedicated to Scipione Maffei and Girolamo Fracastoro.
Girolamo Fracastoro was a doctor, poet, and astronomer, and is depicted wearing a Roman toga and holding a sphere representing the world. According to legend, the sphere will fall on the head of the first true gentleman who passes underneath him.
Tips for visiting Piazza dei Signori
- Piazza dei Signori is pedestrianised with the odd passing of local authority.
- The square has a few cafés and restaurants where you can dine al fresco or inside.
Address: Piazza dei Signori, 37121 Verona
Opening hours: Cafés and restaurants open from 10:00 until late
Admission: Free
13. Scaliger Tombs (Arche Scaligere)
Arche Scaligere, or Scaliger Tombs is a monumental funerary complex built in the Gothic style located outside the church of Santa Maria Antica. This is the final resting place of five Lords of Verona who which ruled over the territory of Verona until 1387.
The first tomb built here is that of Cangrande I, the most famous of the family dynasty and the protector of the poet Dante and whose tomb is attached to the exterior church wall. This name cangrande means “big dog” in Italian, which is why there is a statue made in his likeness on horseback decorated with harnessed dogs.
Two angels watch over the tomb of Mastino II, and Cansignorio’s tomb is the most ornate with warrior saints protecting him. The final two tombs are for Alberto II without a canopy and Giovanni, whose tomb is also built into the church wall.
Tips for visiting Scaliger Tombs
- While the Scaliger tombs can be seen from behind the ironwork fence for free, you can pay a small entrance fee to see the monuments up close.
Address: Via Arche Scaligere, 37121 Verona
Opening hours:
- Opening during the summer
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00 – 13:00 and 15:00 – 18:00
Admission:
- Free entrance with the Verona Card
- Entrance: 1,00 €
14. Casa di Giulietta and Juliet’s Balcony
William Shakespeare certainly put Verona on the map for the English-speaking world which has now made visiting Juliet’s House, or Casa di Giulietta, one of the best things to do in Verona.
Shakespeare took inspiration for his famous play from a true story of family rivalry which happened in Verona during the 1300s. Their names were Montecchi and Capuleti (from which we get the Capulets and Montagues) and at the time were genuine rival political factions.
Shakespeare wasn’t the first to write about the love story between Romeo and Juliet. Luigi Da Porto was the first author of the celebrated story in 1500.
Juliet’s 13th century house was indeed that which belonged to the Dal Cappello family and today houses a small museum with a collection of paintings, prints, and ceramics. Added years later (for the benefit of fans of the play) is Juliet’s balcony, the supposed location of the famous scene where Romeo hails Juliet from her balcony.
The balcony overlooks a small courtyard where a bronze statue of Juliet dating from 2014 stands, replacing the original from 1969 which is now located in the museum’s atrium.
Lining the walls of the entrance to the courtyard are thousands of post it notes covered in declarations of love.
Some 50,000 letters addressed to Juliet are sent to Verona each from those seeking advice from Shakespeare’s romantic heroine. A group of volunteers set up The Juliet Club to act as “secretaries of Juliet,” and respond to these letters, thus keeping alive the magic and romance of one of the most powerful love stories in history.
Tips for visiting Juliet’s House
- Juliet’s House gets very busy during high season, I recommend visiting first thing in the morning to avoid the crowds and have a less crowded experience inside the museum.
- You can visit the courtyard where you can see Juliet’s statue and balcony for free. To access the balcony, this is only possible by purchasing a ticket to the exhibition inside.
- If you want to leave a love notes on the walls outside, you’ll need to bring your own pen, paper and adhesive.
- Don’t forget to rub the right breast of Juliet’s statue to bring good luck.
Address: Via Cappello, 23, 37121 Verona
Opening hours:
- Monday: 13:30 – 19:30
- Tuesday – Sunday: 08:30 – 19:30
- Last entrance: 18.45
Admission:
- Free entrance with the Verona Card
- Adult: 6,00 €
- Groups (min 15 pers): 4,50 €
- Schools and 8-14 years old: 1,00 €
- First Sunday of the month between October and March: 1,00 €
Visit the official Casa di Giullietta website here for information
Going to Verona with someone special? Tell them how you feel and learn how to say ‘I love you’ in Italian
15. Casa di Romeo (Romeo’s house)
Just a short walk from Juliet’s house is Romeo’s House hidden behind the crenellated walls of this now private house. Even though historians say that this was the home of Cagnolo Nogarola, ancient documents suggest this was the house of the Montecchi family, aka Montagues’ and was once as large as the whole block.
The house looks like the Della Scala palaces, being both Romantic and Gothic in style. On the façade of the house is a plaque (unfortunately now covered in graffiti) with an inscription in both Italian and English dedicated to the memory of the two young lovers. It reads: “Oh Dov’è Romeo?… Taci, ho perduto me stesso: io non sono quì e non son Romeo, Romeo è altrove” (Act 1, scene 1). ” Tut, I have lost myself, I am not here: This is not Romeo, he’s some other where.”
Tips for visiting Romeo’s House
- The house itself cannot be visited but you can get closer by visiting the restaurant located within its walls.
Address:Via Arche Scaligere, 2, 37121 Verona
Opening hours: Closed to the public. This is a private residence so please be respectful.
16. St. Zeno Maggiore Church (Basilica di San Zeno)
An essential stop for any Romeo and Juliet fan is here at Basilica di San Zeno, the fictional location of the marriage between Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet which took place in the crypt.
Even if you’re not a huge fan of Romeo and Juliet, Basilica of San Zeno is definitely worth visiting. Located on the west side of the River Adige, Basilica of San Zeno is one of the most important religious buildings in Verona, famous for its Romanesque architecture and beautiful rose window (called “Wheel of Fortune”). It is also home to the famous triptych by Mantegna depicting the Madonna with Child and Saints.
Both the Basilica and the adjoining Benedictine monastery were built in honour of St. Zeno, the patron saint of Verona, who died in 380 AD.
Tips for visiting Basilica di San Zeno
- The house itself cannot be visited but you can get closer by visiting the restaurant located within its walls.
- Visitors should cover their shoulders and knees before entering the church.
Address: Piazza San Zeno, 2, 37123 Verona
Opening hours:
- March – October
- Monday – Saturday 08:30 – 18:00 (luglio e agosto fino 18.30)
- Sunday and religious holidays 12.30 – 18.00
- November – February
- Monday – Saturday 10.00 – 13.00 and 13.30 – 17.00
- Sunday and religious holidays 12.30 – 17:30
- Last entry is 15 minutes before closing time
Admission:
- Free entrance with the Verona Card
- Adult: 3,00 €
- 0-11 years: Free
- Schools: 1,00 €
- Group (min. 20 people): 2,00 €
17. Juliet’s Tomb at San Francesco al Corso Monastery
Rounding out your Romeo and Juliet tour of Verona is paying a visit to San Francesco al Corso monastery to see Juliet’s tomb. Located just beyond the city walls in the crypt of San Francesco al Corso monastery is Juliet’s empty tomb where she was laid to rest after drinking poison.
Today, the old monastery has been transformed into the Museum of Frescoes G.B. Cavalcaselle. The museum houses frescos from Veronese buildings dating from Medieval times through the sixteenth century as well as nineteenth-century sculptures.
If you’re so inclined you can even join the thousands of people who have come here from around the world to get married in one of the cosy halls of the museum.
Tips for visiting Juliet’s Tomb
- The house itself cannot be visited but you can get closer by visiting the restaurant located within its walls.
Address: Via Luigi da Porto, 5, 37122 Verona
Opening hours:
- Monday: 13:30 – 19:30
- Tuesday – Sunday: 08:30 – 19:30
- Last entry: 18:30
Admission:
- Free entrance with the Verona Card or persons with disabilities
- Adult: 4,50 €
- Reduced: 5,00 € (over 60, students)
- Monday: 5.00 € (due to Modern Art Gallery being closed)
- Schools and 8-14 years old (Monday only): 1,00 €
18. Ponte Nuovo
Crossing the Adige River to the east of the city is Ponte Nuovo. The attraction here isn’t the bridge itself but the lovely perspective it provides of the historic centre.
Tips for visiting Ponte Nuovo
- This is a lovely place to take a stroll down at dusk when the street lamps illuminate the path and side streets towards Ponte Pietra on the west bank.
Address: Ponte Nuovo, 37121 Verona VR, Italy
19. Giardino Giusti
For one of the best views in Verona, come to Giardino Giusti. Located above the tranquil gardens of this Neoclassical palace is one of the loveliest spots in Verona to spend an afternoon and relax to the chime of church bells in the distance.
Giardino Giusti is an oasis of greenery and the only sixteenth-century Italian-style garden in Verona which has attracted the likes of Goethe and Mozart.
The gardens are made up of 8 different squares with a unique design and a central fountain or decoration. There is also a hedge maze and series of grottoes landscaped into the hillside.
Tips for visiting Giardino Giusti
Address: Via Giardino Giusti, 2, Verona
Opening hours:
- Monday – Sunday: 09.00 – 19.00
- Closed on 25 December
Admission:
- Reduced entrance fee with the Verona Card
- Persons with disabilities: Free
- Adult: 10,00 €
- Reduced: 7,00 € (over 60, students, groups of over 15 people)
Visit the official Giardino Giusti website for more information
20. Roman Amphitheater (Il Teatro Romano)
Overlooking the banks of the River Adige is a Roman Theatre, a spectacular oval-shaped Roman amphitheater dating from the first century. Not to be confused with Verona Arena, this Roman arena also played host to sporting events, games, and gladiatorial battles.
Built on the hills of St. Peter in the middle of Augustinian age, this spectacular theatre was lost over centuries of various civil and religious buildings being built over its ruins. It wasn’t until 1834 that the rich Veronese merchant, Andrea Monga, bought the houses in the area and set about archaeological excavations which unearthed the original marble floor of the orchestra pit and rows of stone seats.
The only damage the Roman Theatre suffered was to part of the seating when the Church of San Siro was built on the site during the 10th century.
Located on the hill above the theatre is the former Convent of San Gerolamo which houses an Archaeological Museum. Here you’ll find a wealth of Roman artefacts found throughout the Verona area including coins, mosaics and sculptures. On top of that, the museum has beautiful views over the river and city landscape.
Today, this Roman Theatre is once again open to the public hosting open-air concerts, opera, and ballet from early June to the end of July seating up to 15,000 people.
Tips for visiting Roman Amphitheater
- During the summer, the Roman Theatre is wheelchair accessible via gangways. During winter, those touring the theatre and gain access via Vicolo Botte.
- The Archaeological Museum is not wheelchair accessible.
- A tour of the theatre and museum is a must for those interested in Roman history.
Address: Regaste Redentore, 2, 37129 Verona
Opening hours:
- Monday: 13.30 – 19.30
- Tuesday – Sunday: 08.30 – 19.30
- Last entrance: 18:30
- Closing times may vary if there is a performance on in the evening.
Admission:
- Free entrance with the Verona Card
- Adult: 4,50 €
- Groups (15+ people): 3,00 €
- 8-14 years: 1,00 €
- 0-7 years: Free
- Admission includes audioguide
Visit the official Teatro Romano Summer festival website for more information
21. Verona Cathedral (Complesso della Cattedrale Duomo)
Verona Cathedral (Cattedrale di Santa Maria Matricolare) is the most decorative of all the religious buildings in Verona featuring a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles making it one of the most beautiful churches in Verona. Not to be missed is the stunning fresco in the main altar depicting a religious scene, the huge gold organ located to its right, and red Verona marble columns lining the main knave.
Consecrated in 1187, Verona Cathedral is one of the oldest religious buildings in Verona. The Cathedral is the central structure of a complex of buildings which include San Giovanni in Fonte, Santa Elena, and the Canon’s Cloister.
Tips for visiting Verona Cathedral
- The cathedral is closed during Mass.
- The main church is wheelchair accessible; the Baptistery and secondary churches have steps at the entrances.
- As with all churches, visitors should cover their shoulders and knees before entering.
Address: Piazza Duomo / Piazza Vescovado, 37121
Opening hours:
- March – October
- Monday – Saturday 10:30 – 17:30
- Sunday and religious holidays 13.30 – 17:30
- November – February
- Monday – Saturday 10.00 – 17.00
- Sunday and religious holidays 13.30 – 17:30
Admission:
- Free entrance with the Verona Card
- Adult: 3,00 €
- Groups (min. 20 people): 2,00 €
- 0-11 years: 1,00 €
- Schools: 1,00 €
- Admission includes audioguide
Visit the official Verona Cathedral website for more information
22. Basilica of Saint Anastasia
Basilica of Saint Anastasia is named after Saint Anastasia, a martyr who lived in the 4th century AD whose name was kept after the church that previously stood on the same site. The basilica is also dedicated to St. Peter, one of Verona’s patron saints. The basilica was where the ruling families of Verona’s came to worship, including the highly influential Scaliger family.
The interior features a richly decorated vaulted ceiling with ornate side chapels. Don’t miss 15th-century artist Pisanello’s famous fresco located above the entrance to the Pellegrini chapel.
Tips for visiting Basilica of Saint Anastasia
- Free entrance if you’re attending mass.
Address: Piazza Santa Anastasia, 37121 Verona
Opening hours:
- March – October
- Monday – Saturday 10:30 – 18:00
- Sunday and religious holidays 13:30 – 18:00
- November – February
- Monday – Saturday 10.00 – 17.00
- Sunday and religious holidays 13:00 – 17:00
Admission:
- Free entrance with the Verona Card
- Adult: 3,00 €
- Groups (min. 20 people): 2,00 €
- 0-11 years: 1,00 €
- Schools: 1,00 €
- Admission includes audioguide
Visit the official Basilica of Saint Anastasia website for more information
23. Ponte Pietra
Ponte Pietra, literally Stone Bridge is the only remaining bridge from Roman times. It was built in the first century BC to replace an existing wooden bridge. Ponte Pietra connected the original route of the Via Postumia with the opposite hill where the Roman Theatre is located.
A lovely want to enjoy this part of Verona is by getting a gelato at the local hotspot Gelateria Ponte Pietra Verona located on Via Ponte Pietra, 13 and taking a stroll across the bridge. Take your time to admire the buildings lining the river bank before heading north across the bridge and walking along the river bank to the west.
Tips for visiting Ponte Pietra
- This is a lovely spot to sit by the water and watch the world go by. The colours here are sunset are epic!
Address: Ponte Pietra, 37121
24. Take the funicular to Castle San Pietro
For arguably the best view in Verona, head up to Castel San Pietro for panoramic views of the enchanting city of Verona. After a 90 second ride on the funicular, you can see the Adige River snake around the city,
Tips for visiting Funicolare di Castel San Pietro
- Pack wine, cheese, and panini and do as the locals do and head here for an aperitivo as you watch the sunset. This place is absolute perfection.
Address:
- The funicular is located at Via Santo Stefano, 12, 37129
- Alternatively, you can go by foot by taking the stairs which start at Scalinata Castel S. Pietro.
Funicular Opening hours:
- April – October
- Monday – Sunday: 10:00 – 21:00
- November – March
- Monday – Sunday: 10:00 – 17:00
- Closed: January 1st, December 25th
- The ticket office closes 15 minutes before closing time.
Admission:
- Return ticket: 2,00 €
- One way: 1,00 €
- Groups (min. 15 people): 1,50 €
- 0-10 / over 65 years: 1,00 €
- 0-1 year old / persons with disabilities / teachers / tour guides: Free
Visit the official Funicolare di Castel San Pietro website for more information
25. Take a day trip to Sirmione on Lake Garda
Why not spend the day relaxing by Lago di Garda aka Lake Garda fringed by villages, mountains, vineyards and citrus groves. Lake Garda is only 40 minutes from Verona making it incredibly close, so it would be a shame to miss out on visiting Italy’s largest lake while you’re in town.
One of the closest and picturesque spots to Verona on Lake Garda is the town of Sirmione where you’ll find Castello Scaligero (also known as the Rocca Scaligera or the Rocca di Sirmione), a 13th century fortress built by the Scaligere family. It was built over the top of the ruins of an ancient Roman fortress is one of the most complete and well-conserved castles in Italy. The castle sits at the narrowest point of the peninsula and protected the Medieval town which was accessed by crossing one of the castle’s bridges and passing through the city gate.
Also in Sirmione is the Roman Villa of the poet Catullus, known also as “Grotte di Catullo”, lots of lovely beaches some smaller than others, pretty narrow alleys, and loads of cafes and restaurants.
Tips for visiting Lake Garda
- To reach the eastern side of Lake Garda, “Riviera degli Ulivi” you can take the local ATV local bus.
- Bus lines from Verona are 162, 163, 185. To go further, to the northern part of the lake, you can take busses 483 and 484. For more bus information and times, visit ATV.verona.com
- If you don’t want to bother with public transport, join this Sirmione and Lake Garda small group tour or this full-day Lake Garda tour.
Opening hours:
- Castello Scaligero
- 08:30 until 19:00. Closed Mondays.
- Grotte di Catullo
- April – October
- Monday, Wednesday – Saturday: 8.30-19.30
- Tuesday: Closed
- Sunday: 8.30-14.00
- November – March
- Monday, Wednesday – Saturday: 8.30-17.00
- Tuesday: Closed
- Sunday: 8.30-14.00
- April – October
- The ticket office closes 45 minutes before closing time.
Admission:
- Castello Scaligero
- Full: 6,00 €
- Ticket includes entrance to Grotte di Catullo and Villa Romana di Desenzano
- Grotte di Catullo
- Full: 8,00 €
- Reduced: 4,00 € (Europeans between 18-25)
Visit the official Castello Scaligero di Sirmione for more information
Visit the official Grotte di Catullo for more information
26. Take a day trip from Verona
Santuario Madonna della Corona
Verona is located in an ideal spot from which to venture out and visit any of the many wonderful cities and locations in the area. In under an hour you can be bathing your feet in Lake Garda, shopping in the super chic city of Milan, savouring local wine and Parmesan cheese and Parma ham in the Parmigiano-Reggiano factory in Parma, wandering the canals of Venice, seeing the colourful houses of Burano, or eating a real spaghetti Bolognese in Bologna.
Getting to any of these places is super easy. Search for and book your train tickets using either Trenitalia, or for a more luxurious experience and faster commute, book with Italo. P.S. Don’t forget to validate your ticket before travelling!
For something closer to home, here are some top-rated day tours that will simplify your travel plans.
- Wine tasting experience and guided tour at Villa Mosconi Bertani in Verona
- Visit the beautiful medieval Soave Borgo for a Wine tasting tour
- Join this Dolomites small-group day trip with Lunch
- Gardaland Amusement Park: Skip-the-line ticket
- Verona food walking tour with wine tasting
- Risotto and Pasta Cooking Class
- Spend the day in Parco Giardino Sigurtà, voted the most beautiful park in Italy in 2013.
- Compare the best car rental prices here or catch a train and visit Santuario Madonna della Corona (pictured above) that clings to the rising mountains 774 meters above sea level, overlooking the valley of the Adige river.
Watch my vlog on the best things to do in Verona
How to get to Verona from the airport
Getting to Verona city centre is very easy. Look out for the big blue shuttle bus at the front of the terminal. This will take your to the main strain station, Verona Porta Nuova. Tickets cost €6 and can be bought from the driver. Only cash is accepted. The journey is takes 10 minutes or so.
From Verona Porta Nuova station, take either bus 11, 12, 13 towards Piazza Bra and alight there. From there you can walk to your accommodation relatively easily. Bus tickets must be purchased from the ticket machine for €2.
Getting around Verona
Verona is a very walkable city and everything can be reached by foot. With your VeronaCard public transportation is free so you can always use it to catch the bus and travel the length of the city more quickly if you only have a short time.
Where to stay in Verona
When it comes to accommodation, Verona has something for everyone on any budget. When you’re ready to book, use my special link and get 10% of your booking back. Win-win! Here are some of the top-rated hotels to choose from in Verona.
Budget
B&B Primavera — Just because you’re on a budget, doesn’t mean you can’t be in a central location. Located less than 5 minutes from Verona Arena, B&B Primavera is the perfect budget accommodation. The rooms are clean and well-furnished and decoration, which is rare when it comes to budget hotels.
Check room rates and book your stay at B&B Primavera
Midrange
Hotel Bologna — This is where I stayed during my trip to Verona. It’s close to Piazza Bra where the bus stop is and conveniently located near the Verona Arena and shops. The room was spacious, quiet, breakfast was included and the view from the view was lovely.
Check room rates and book your stay at Hotel Bologna here
Luxury
Hotel Milano & Spa — What could be more luxurious or special that a stay at Hotel Milano. Their most famous feature is their rooftop jacuzzi which overlooks Verona Arena. I really want to stay here but they were fully booked, for obvious reasons! Don’t miss your chance, book your room well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Check room rates and book your stay at the Hotel Milano & Spa
Need more options?
Don’t miss my complete guide on where to stay in Verona.
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